When I was first born again, I wanted to tell everyone about Jesus, but I didn't know how to evangelize. I blasted social media with videos that nobody really watched, but I didn't really care, I just wanted to share in any way that I could, but as I matured in my faith, I began to realize that evangelism is not a numbers game--it's about intimate conversations with people who God has prepared a divine appointment. It begins with obedience--hearing and doing God's will. God will set up diving appointments for you, but first you have to ask God for opportunities to evangelize and when the Holy Spirit compels you to do something, you must do it (even when it's hard or doesn't make sense).

That's exactly what Jesus did that led him to his divine appointment with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-42). Once the opportunity was opened up, Jesus exemplifies profound evangelism insights regarding obedience, humility, and a willingness to go against cultural norms to reach the lost. By studying this story, we can draw out five tips that every evangelist needs to adhere to, whether brand new to the faith or a life-long follower of Christ.

1. Evangelism Starts with Obedience

John 4:3-4 tells us, “He left Judea and departed again for Galilee. And he had to pass through Samaria.”

From a geographical standpoint, Jesus didn’t have to pass through Samaria. Devout Jews typically avoided Samaria due to the hostility between Jews and Samaritans, often taking a longer route around it. But the Greek word for “had to” in this passage is dei, meaning “it was necessary” in the sense of divine purpose.

Jesus’ decision to go through Samaria was an act of obedience to God’s will. He went into hostile territory, not because it was convenient or safe, but because God had a divine appointment waiting for Him. This reminds us that evangelism often requires us to step outside of our comfort zones and obey God’s leading, even when it goes against our own preferences or cultural norms.

2. Pursue the Lost Where They Are

Jesus didn’t wait for the Samaritan woman to come to Him. He went to her, meeting her at Jacob’s well in the heat of the day—an unusual time for anyone to be drawing water. Most people went to the well in the morning or evening to avoid the scorching sun, but Jesus knew she would be there because God had revealed it to Him.

This encounter teaches us the importance of meeting people where they are, even if it seems inconvenient or unconventional. Jesus didn’t rely on large crowds or public announcements; He started with a one-on-one conversation.

3. Humble Yourself and Connect Personally

In His conversation with the Samaritan woman, Jesus broke multiple cultural barriers. Speaking to a Samaritan was already frowned upon by Jewish society, and speaking to a Samaritan woman was considered even more scandalous. The woman herself was shocked, saying, “How is it that you, a Jew, ask for a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?” (John 4:9).

By asking for a drink, Jesus humbled Himself. He shared her water jug, something most Jews would never do, as they considered Samaritans perpetually unclean. In doing so, Jesus communicated that He valued her as a person. He didn’t approach her with condescension or judgment but showed her dignity and respect.

This humility is a key aspect of effective evangelism. When we approach others with genuine respect and a willingness to meet them on their level, we reflect Christ’s love and open the door for meaningful conversations.

4. Focus on God’s Word, Not Your Persuasion

After her encounter with Jesus, the Samaritan woman shared her testimony with her community, saying, “Come, see a man who told me all that I ever did. Can this be the Christ?” (John 4:29). Her testimony brought many to Jesus, but it was His words that ultimately transformed them:

“Many more believed because of his word. They said to the woman, ‘It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.’” (John 4:41-42).

This underscores a critical truth: it’s not up to us to convince someone to believe. We can share our testimony, but true transformation comes from hearing and encountering the Word of God. The Bible is powerful and life-changing; our role is to point people to it and let God do the rest.

5. Evangelism Requires Courage and Trust

Jesus’ actions in Samaria went against cultural, religious, and societal norms. Speaking to a Samaritan woman, sharing a water jug, and engaging with someone considered an outcast required courage. Yet Jesus trusted in God’s plan and obeyed, even when it meant risking criticism and rejection.

In the same way, evangelism often requires us to take bold steps. It may mean engaging with people who are different from us, stepping into uncomfortable situations, or risking misunderstanding. But when we trust in God’s leading, we can rest assured that He is working through us.

Final Thoughts

To evangelize like Jesus, we must follow His example of obedience, humility, and reliance on God’s Word. It’s not about grand gestures or perfect words; it’s about meeting people where they are, respecting their humanity, and pointing them to the transformative power of Christ.

As you step out in faith to share the gospel, remember that it’s not your job to open someone’s eyes to the truth—only God can do that. Your role is to obey, plant the seeds, and trust Him to bring the harvest.

Go forth with courage, humility, and love, and watch how God uses your efforts to bring others into His kingdom.